PHOENIX - Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu will no longer run for Congress.

He will run for re-election as sheriff.

The announcement came overnight in a written statement by Babeu.

Last year, he announced he was running for Arizona's fourth Congressional District.

But his chances of winning took a hit earlier this year -- when a former gay lover claimed the sheriff had blackmailed him.

Babeu denied the allegations but was forced to admit he was gay.

Here is part of Babeu's statement. He says: "I was elected because I listen and respond to the people I represent. I want to continue to serve as sheriff and focus on performance and results of public safety."

Babeu also thanked those who supported his run for Congress.